Growing up in Musanze, at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes, tourism has been woven into the fabric of my life. As Rwanda celebrates the 20th Kwita Izina ceremony, I reflect on the remarkable journey of our tourism sector, mirroring Rwanda’s transformation from tragedy to triumph.
My earliest memories are shaped by the misty peaks of the Virungas and the quiet excitement of visitors arriving to trek into the mountains in search of our famous gentle giants. My family, longstanding stakeholders in tourism, were among those who believed in Rwanda’s potential when few others did. Through their eyes, I witnessed the gradual evolution of our tourism industry from a fragile, post-conflict initiative to a cornerstone of our economy and identity.
The changes have been profound. As a child, I recall the Office Rwandais du Tourisme et des Parcs Nationaux (ORTPN) managing our wildlife areas with limited resources but boundless passion. The transition to Rwanda Development Board (RDB) marked a pivotal shift – tourism was no longer just about conservation but also about economic development, community empowerment, and national branding. This strategic realignment has paid dividends beyond expectations.
Having hiked three volcanic peaks and encountered mountain gorillas in their misty habitat, I can attest to the transformative power of these experiences. Each trek tells a story – not just of natural beauty but of meticulous conservation, community engagement, and world-class hospitality. Recently, after conquering Mount Kilimanjaro, I realized that while other destinations offer higher peaks, Rwanda offers something uniquely profound – a journey of resilience, restoration, and rebirth.
The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging, unveiled an unexpected silver lining. As international borders closed, we Rwandans turned inward, discovering treasures in our own backyard. This surge in domestic tourism has not only sustained our industry but deepened our connection to our natural heritage. From young professionals wandering through Nyungwe to families exploring Akagera, we have become tourists in our own country – and are richer for it.
Approaching the 20th Kwita Izina ceremony, where we name our newest gorilla babies, we celebrate more than conservation success. We celebrate a vision realized, a nation renewed, and pride in our homeland. Once a local event, the ceremony now draws global attention – a testament to Rwanda’s emergence as a premier tourism destination.
Yet, what moves me most is not the international accolades or economic statistics. It's the transformation I’ve witnessed in my own community in Musanze. Tourism has brought education, employment, and dignity. The children of former poachers now work as conservationists. Small-scale farmers have become successful entrepreneurs. Our local schools host environmental clubs where students dream of becoming veterinary doctors, guides, researchers, and hospitality professionals.
Looking ahead, the future of Rwanda’s tourism sector is bright. Our high-value, low-impact model has become a blueprint for sustainable tourism globally. As we diversify our offerings – from cultural experiences to conference tourism – we remain anchored in our core values: conservation, community benefit, and exceptional service.
The journey from the Rwanda I knew as a child to the Rwanda of today has been remarkable. As we gather to name our gorilla cousins, we also name our aspirations for the future. In every tourist's footstep, conservation success, and community uplifted, we see the realization of a dream that seemed impossible three decades ago.
From the mist-shrouded slopes of the Virungas to the savannah of Akagera, from Nyungwe's canopy walks to the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda’s tourism story is a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets determination.
As we celebrate this 20th Kwita Izina, we do so as active participants in one of Africa’s most inspiring transformations.
The world now knows Rwanda for its gorillas, but those who have lived this journey know that the real story is about the indomitable spirit of a nation that dared to dream big – and the people who made those dreams a reality, one step at a time.
The writer is a graduate research assistant (Msc mechanical engineering) at University of St Thomas, Minessota.